Collisions with animals – what to do

Drivers on the A-355 between Coín to Marbella on the Tuesday, September 10 could not believe what they were seeing.

A horse had escaped and was trotting along the busy road causing traffic jams. After a few chaotic minutes, the animal was safely removed by the Police. It was all a shock for drivers on this stretch of road, a country road already notorious for multiple accidents. It was not known where the horse had escaped from.

Country roads and motorways, can bring unexpected surprises. It is estimated that there are around 14,000 road accidents a year in Spain caused by roaming animals. Specific protocols are in place to follow in the event of an accident with a stray animal. Whether a dog, horse, wild boar or even farm animals, wildlife collisions are more common than many think. But do you know what to do if it happens to you?

Some key steps to remember in the event of an accident with an animal

As well as the emotional shock and immediate danger from an accident, there are legal implications to take into consideration. Here are some key points to remember. The first is to keep a mental note of what kilometre more or less you are at along the road. Signs at each exit usually indicate this. The exit for La Cala de Mijas in Malaga province, for example, is KM1024.

Firstly, stop the car safely at the side of the road and put on the hazard lights. Slamming on the brakes could lead to more problems. After checking all the occupants of the vehicle are safe and unharmed. Call 112 immediately to alert the emergency services and report at which kilometre on the road you are.

Resist approaching the affected animal

Shocked or injured animals may act defensively and become violent, so resist approaching the creature. Put on the mandatory reflective vest (to be kept in a car at all times), and signal to other vehicles either with reflective triangles or the new emergency flashing lights that. If the affected animal is on the road, call 112 for the emergency services. If it is off the road and not an immediate danger to other motorists, call SEPRONA, the nature wing of the Guardia Civil on 062. Failure to contact them could result in a €200 fine.